- Thanks to Paul Martz and Linda Ditchkus for stepping up to edit the next RMFW anthology, due out in 2024. Polish up those short stories and get ready to submit. You can learn all about the anthology process, including an announcement of the theme, on the latest RMFW podcast.
- Check this clear study of ‘author intrusion’ here on Writers in The Storm. With examples. Once you recognize it, you’ll never do it again. Your readers will thank you.
- Last month, I promoted a podcast called TSNOTYAW (@TSNOTYAW on Twitter). The more I listen, the more I dig it. The query letter debriefing is solid, the advice is great. In fact, the discussion of those query letters and opening pages offer a terrific example of how to give feedback. You will hear lots of query letters read aloud (and analyzed, too). On top of that, you’ll hear some terrific ideas for novels. I love trying to anticipate what the hosts will say—will their comments match my own?
- Are you following the articles being published (and related podcasts) about RMFW celebrating its 40th anniversary? Here’s one thing that’s clear to me. RMFW is always changing. It’s an ever-evolving organization. It’s a volunteer-driven organization. And those who volunteer and get in the middle of making decisions get to decide its shape and direction. Have an opinion what should be offered? Get involved.
- The mighty Washington Post book critic Ron Charles recently ran a piece about reader “pet peeves,” based on responses he gathered from readers of his Book Club newsletter. The comments were interesting, but nothing scientific. For instance, “no dream sequences.” A call for accuracy. (There’s a concept!) And no typos. Or grammatical errors. Know the difference between “flout” and “flaunt.” No “interminable prologues.” No long italicized passages. Sure, they are “pet peeves,” but why not avoid them if you can?
- Speaking of getting better at your writing, what are you doing this summer? Specifically, mid-July? I’m co-host of a writing conference here in southwest Colorado, where I live. Inviting fiction writers and poets—both aspiring and published writers. It’s the inaugural Mesa Verde Writers Conference. The faculty includes Alan McMonagle (coming over from Galway, Ireland), Nick Arvin, and Lisa C. Taylor. Details here.
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